Librium
Generic Name: Chlordiazepoxide
What is Librium?
Librium is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is also prescribed for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of withdrawal in acute alcoholism, and anxiety and apprehension before surgery.What is the most important information I should know about Librium?
Librium has the potential to cause dependence. You could experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it abruptly. Do not discontinue the drug or change your dose without your doctor's approval.Who should not take Librium?
Do not use Librium if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Librium?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Librium. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, porphyria (a rare metabolic disorder), or suffer from depression or have suicidal thoughts.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Mild to Moderate Anxiety
Adults: The usual dose is 5 or 10 milligrams (mg) taken three to four times a day.
Children ≥6 years: The usual dose is 5 mg taken two to four times a day. Some children may need to take 10 mg, two to three times a day.
The drug is not recommended for children <6 years old.
Severe Anxiety
Adults: The usual dose is 20 or 25 mg taken three to four times a day.
Apprehension and Anxiety Before Surgery
Adults: On days before surgery, the usual dose is 5-10 mg taken three to four times a day.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Acute Alcoholism
Adults: The injectable form is usually used initially, followed by the oral medication starting at doses from 50-100 mg, with repeated doses as needed up to 300 mg per day. The doctor will repeat this dose, up to a maximum of 300 mg per day, until agitation is controlled. The dose will then be reduced as much as possible.
In elderly patients, the dose may be limited to the smallest effective amount in order to avoid oversedation or lack of coordination. The usual dose is 5 mg taken two to four times per day.
How should I take Librium?
Take Librium exactly as prescribed.What should I avoid while taking Librium?
Librium may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how you react to Librium.Avoid alcohol while taking Librium as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Librium?
If Librium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Librium with the following: antacids, antidepressant drugs known as MAO inhibitors, including phenelzine and tranylcypromine, antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine and trifluoperazine, antiseizure drugs such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, barbiturates, blood thinners, cimetidine, disulfiram, levodopa, muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine, narcotic pain relievers, and tranquilizers and sedatives such as alprazolam, diazepam, midazolam, and triazolam.What are the possible side effects of Librium?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: confusion, constipation, drowsiness, fainting, increased or decreased sex drive, liver problems, lack of muscle coordination, minor menstrual irregularities, nausea, skin rash or eruptions, swelling due to fluid retention, yellow eyes and skin
Side effects due to rapid decrease or abrupt withdrawal from Librium may include: abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, exaggerated feeling of depression, sleeplessness, sweating, tremors, vomiting
Can I receive Librium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take Librium if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There may be an increased risk of birth defects. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Librium.What should I do if I miss a dose of Librium?
Take it as soon as you remember if it is within an hour of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Librium?
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
